Three Sisters (Russian Arts Theater)

The Russian Arts Theater and Studio presents Anton Chekhov's tragicomic story about the decline of a privileged family grappling with the changes of a modern world. More…

Following the death of their army officer father, the Moscow-born and bred Prozorov siblings find themselves living in a remote provincial town, trapped inside the memories of their glorious past. Only the proximity of a nearby artillery post and the company of its officers make their existence bearable. As they fumble for purpose amidst the clutter of awkward suitors, clumsy birthday presents, absurd squabbles, and raging house fires, only one desire remains undimmed: to return to Moscow! Part of the company's first annual New York Chekhov Festival, which also includes lectures, talk backs, and other events.

See it if
you think that Chekhov should be respected and not cut to suit a Broadway/fast-paced rhythm.

Don't see it if
you don't understand Chekhov...

Also
This production really captures the fin-de-siècle Russian spirit and Chekhov's political viewpoint. The addition of music helps convey the convivial atmosphere of the Prozorov household.... Read moreRead less

See it if
you like Chekhov. The show is faithful to the original, and the second half was quite moving.

Don't see it if
No reason not to see it.

Also
The Russian Art Theatre excels at ensemble work, and their version of Three Sisters begins in a lively name-day party and ends in chaos and bleak resignation.What I missed was the foreshadowing that Chekhov wrote into the first acts. All that chaos has its roots in what went before, and that gets lost amidst all the play and laughter.... Read moreRead less

Don't see it if
Acting was average - none of the actors were memorable. The main actor missed his lines at least five times in the first half of the play.

Also
I was excited to see this revival given the very high ratings from previous reviewers. But I was disappointed because the entire evening lacked any high points. It is good, so see it if you expect good theater (70-80), but if you go in expecting great theater based on an average of 92 (which is the current average), then you will be disappointed.... Read moreRead less

See it if
you like to be entertained with good ensemble theater and some really great acting.The play touches life as it is now lightly and with charm

Don't see it if
you don't like really great theater with wit ,charm,good acting,music ,great costumes,directing,and scenery. It's in a wonderful small space

Also
Go see it! It's Chekhov done in a wonderfully light comedic way that is full of life.The actors relate with each other and draw the audience into their delightful life in the play. It is enchanting!... Read moreRead less

See it if
You are interested in a very different and exciting interpretation of Chekhov's writing.

Don't see it if
You are looking for the same "Three Sisters" you've seen before.

Also
This production chooses to use hopefulness and levity to overcome the melancholy of it's backwater Russian town setting as well as it's unfortunate citizens. Great theater is suspenseful and surprising. I'm pleased to say that this production of "Three Sisters" has both in spades.... Read moreRead less

See it if
I throughly enjoyed this production. The masterful direction keeps you engaged with the story.

Don't see it if
You don't have the time to enjoy it to the end!

Also
They magically found the humor in humanity to gently lead you to a sad ending. The company rises to the challenge of an epic ensemble. It's a must see production with a lat of heart!... Read moreRead less

See it if
Found it very well done-acting, staging-told the story very well

Don't see it if
You want a completely traditional version. Music used, some men's costumes, other touches quirky or from different times play set.

Also
I would like to know what music was used and why. Some was Russian but there was some Scott Joplin, I think Umbrellas of Cherborg and some others I could not place. If I had been at a talk back I would have asked.... Read moreRead less

"The time-honored piece is well respected under Aleksey Burago’s direction, while maintaining an exciting newness. Character interactions and intentions are classically Stanislavski; while dance, music, and artful movement innovate in revelatory ways....A welcomed addition...Take part in this adv...
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